Newcastle United have completed the signing of highly rated forward Antonio Cordero from Malaga, in what’s being described as a major youth recruitment coup.
The 18-year-old, who helped Spain reach the U19 Euro final, will join the Magpies when his contract with Malaga expires this week. Several Premier League clubs were reportedly interested in landing the teenager, but Newcastle moved quickly to seal the deal.
Cordero is expected to go out on loan immediately to continue his development, but the club sees him as a major long-term prospect.
Emerging Talent Focus as Cordero Signs In
The deal continues Newcastle’s aggressive strategy of signing elite young talent from across Europe. Cordero joins Vakhtang Salia, a Georgian striker who will move to Tyneside when he turns 18 in August.
The dual signings are part of a long-term academy investment model designed to build talent from within — much like Chelsea and Manchester City have done with great success.
Paul Mitchell: “Essential to Future Under PSR Rules”
Outgoing sporting director Paul Mitchell — who helped orchestrate both deals — emphasised the importance of sustainable talent acquisition.
“Scouting and recruiting emerging talent is an essential part of building a sustainable future, particularly within the current PSR framework… the market is fiercely competitive.” — Paul Mitchell
Mitchell’s comments reflect a growing need for clubs to develop rather than overspend, especially under Premier League Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
Analyst Verdict
Cordero isn’t a name for the starting XI — yet. But this is a smart, strategic signing. It keeps Newcastle competitive in a market where elite youth players are harder to find and more expensive every year.
Chelsea and Man City have shown how profitable this model can be. Newcastle are now building their own version — and doing it quietly, but effectively.
Key Insights
- Antonio Cordero joins Newcastle from Malaga this week
- Won silver with Spain at the U19 Euros
- Was wanted by several other Premier League clubs
- Will be loaned out as part of long-term development
- Newcastle continuing youth-led strategy under PSR limits
What’s Next?
Cordero will likely be loaned to a Championship or Spanish second-tier side for the 2025/26 season. Meanwhile, Newcastle will aim to continue adding elite prospects to their academy pipeline.
The club’s first-team signings are still to come — but the foundation is being laid behind the scenes.
Will Newcastle’s youth strategy pay off like Chelsea’s? Or should they focus on first-team names?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *